The downfall of an empire begins with internal strife. Dr. Lucio Tan’s empire is no different from the dynasties of Imperial China. Trusted advisers are axed by the emperor as advised by his greed mongering administrators. Lucio is no different from these Emperors. He who foments distrust will fall heavily under those who are after his wealth. Dr. Tan’s feud with brother Mariano Tanenglian has earned him the ire of most of the Filipino-Chinese community. Will he choose the path of righteousness?

Thursday

Philip Morris, Fortune Tobacco in 'marriage of equals''

"The problem in any business decision is not 100% purely that you’re looking at the market share, but you’re also looking for other, rofitability and efficiency, the way how management...the way that you carry, you know, the professional management of the company. So the reason we’re entering to this one is surely not just one factor but many other factor that we’re thinking a multiple effect that which would achieve you a lot of cost saving which is a waste, I mean to say this can be, nobody make it just a waste, but because of this synergy, you can save a lot of this thing of the waste," said Harry in the press conference announcing the new joint venture.

But many observers say there's more to this deal than meets the eye. Among the Chinese business elite, there has been consistent talk of Tan's poor health and the problems of succession.

Tan has been involved in a very public dispute with his brother Mariano Taneligan, who until recent years, was his most trusted consiglieri.

Mariano has even threatened to testify against Lucio in the Marcos wealth cases.

Mariano was expected to run the Tan empire until the lines of succession between his numerous children became more clear.

But so far, family disputes have prevented a clear succession. With the succession unclear, and with his health reportedly failing, Tan seems to have opted to gradually sell his tobacco business.

"It’s not fair to speculate so it’s conceivable. But frankly speaking, we’re not looking at that. What we’re looking at is that they offer, as I said, expertise in the domestic business. I think we bring skill set for international, and we look forward to marrying that together," said Nelson.

But Harry did admit that if they sell out, they would be required to offer their shares in PMFTC to Philip Morris.

"So far, we are happy with what, you know, just like marriage, 50-50. Whatever the property, the earnings. And we’re not even thinking of divorce. Today is just our marriage day. Hopefully you will recommend the question that we are going to divorce – I buy you out or you buy me out," Tan said.